The Sports Leaders are a dedicated team of Year 9 pupils who work closely with the PE Department and Chorley Schools Sports Partnership to develop their leadership skills, build confidence and support sporting opportunities within the local community. Through a comprehensive training programme, pupils have the opportunity to gain qualifications in coaching and officiating a range of sports, including tennis, dodgeball and table tennis. They then put these skills into practice by planning and leading sporting events for children from our feeder primary schools, often with minimal guidance. Sports Leaders also volunteer at weekend community events, such as charity colour runs, further enhancing their experience. This valuable role helps pupils develop key transferable skills including communication, teamwork, problem-solving, responsibility and resilience, while increasing their confidence and preparing them for future education and employment. As visible ambassadors for the school, Sports Leaders are recognised by younger pupils as they transition to high school, acting as positive role models and mentors within our wider school community.
Chorley Schools Sports Partnership – Leadership Academy
“This year, I completed approximately 40 hours of voluntary sports leadership. Throughout the year, I supported a range of primary school events, helping younger pupils to develop their sporting skills, build confidence and enjoy being active. It was rewarding to inspire children to participate positively in sport and achieve success.
I also took part in several charity events, including a sponsored fun run in support of Derian House Children’s Hospice. Seeing how the money raised helps children and families within our local community gave me a greater appreciation of the impact that volunteering can have.
Many of these events took place during weekends, requiring us to give up our own time and personal activities, which demonstrated our commitment and dedication to sports leadership. Through these experiences, my communication skills have improved significantly as I have worked with pupils from different schools and age groups. My leadership, organisation and officiating skills have also developed considerably.
Overall, I have become much more confident, and I believe the experiences and skills I have gained through sports leadership will be extremely beneficial in the future.”
“My name is Scarlett, and this year I have dedicated 102.75 hours to volunteering with the Chorley Schools Sports Partnership. Throughout the programme, I have officiated at a variety of sporting events, including football, tennis, hockey and rounders competitions. Through these experiences, I have developed a wide range of valuable skills, particularly in communication, organisation and teamwork. The programme has also provided me with opportunities to build positive relationships with pupils, teachers and staff from across the local area. I have made many new friends from different high schools and established strong connections with both the CSSP team and primary school staff.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the programme has been the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of younger children by encouraging their participation, confidence and enjoyment in sport.
Overall, I have thoroughly enjoyed being part of the Sports Leadership Programme and have grown significantly in confidence and leadership ability. I would strongly encourage Holy Cross Year 9 pupils to become involved, as it is an incredibly rewarding experience that offers opportunities to develop important life skills, support the local community and create lasting memories, whilst being both enjoyable and inspiring.”
“My name is Callum, and this year I have volunteered with the Chorley Schools Sports Partnership, contributing a total of 45 hours of service. During this time, I have refereed a variety of sports and led activities designed to build confidence, encourage participation and increase enjoyment of sport for children and young people, including those with additional needs.
As part of the programme, I have visited numerous primary schools across Chorley and the surrounding area, supporting sporting events, celebrating pupils’ achievements and inspiring younger children to become more active and engaged in sport.
I have also been involved in fundraising activities for several charities, including Derian House Children’s Hospice, through events such as sponsored fun runs. It was rewarding to know that our efforts were helping to support important causes within the local community.
This opportunity has enabled me to develop valuable leadership, communication and organisational skills, whilst making a positive contribution to the lives of others. I have thoroughly enjoyed being part of the programme and would strongly encourage future Holy Cross Year 9 pupils to get involved. It is a highly rewarding experience that allows you to support others, develop important life skills and make a meaningful difference to your community.”
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